Gary Carter is too ill to travel, but the former Mets catcher received a standing ovation when his name was mentioned last night.

Carter, who is fighting an uphill battle against brain cancer, sent a message via his children at an awards dinner.

“I’ll always have a special place in my heart for the city and people of New York,” said Carter, in a message read by his son, D.J. “I’ll never forget my first game in a Mets uniform on Opening Day in 1985 when I had the fortune of leading the team to victory with a walkoff home run.

“The fans were always supportive of me on the baseball field and continue to support me and my family since I was diagnosed with brain cancer in May.”

Carter was honored with the Arthur and Milton Richman “You Gotta Have Heart” Award at the Baseball Writers Association New York chapter’s annual dinner at the Hilton in Midtown.

* Jose Reyes made his first public appearance in New York since signing with the Marlins in December.

The shortstop thanked the Mets organization and fans.

“I know I’m not going to be with you anymore, but I always appreciated [your support],” he said.

The Mets aren’t likely to make any significant additions before spring training, but they’re still looking. In addition to lefty Jeff Francis, they reportedly are among the teams interested in Cody Ross, who could provide outfield depth.